The significance of safe and effective packaging in the hectic world of shipping departments, warehouses, and other industrial settings cannot be emphasized. Banding is a flexible technique that is used to secure and arrange objects for presentation, transit, or storage. It is sometimes referred to as strapping or bundling. In this extensive blog post, we dissect the ease of use and efficacy of banding techniques that work for everyone, regardless of background or industry.
If you’re looking to learn more about the process and benefits of banding when it comes to material handling, you’re in luck! We’re here to help. Banding, otherwise known as strapping, is the process of applying a band to your material in order to unitize it. It can be used when bundling multiple products together, or to secure secondary packaging closed!
Steel is the oldest, most durable strapping material of all. It is used for items that require the most heavy duty holding where high strength and minimal stretch is ideal. When it comes to strapping, there are two major types of hand tools: manual and automatic. Manual tensioners and crimping systems are used for low volume applications, while automatic hand tools are used for high volume applications. For steel straps, both manual and automatic hand sealers can use a seal or seal-less joint.
There are many other ways band proves to be useful. These include attaching items to pallets, skids, and crates, securing coils of steel or paper, closing corrugated boxes and shipping containers, and attaching items to flatcars or flatbed semi-trailers.
Understanding Banding: A Versatile Solution
Banding is the process of tightly binding objects together with straps or bands, which are usually composed of steel, polyester, or polypropylene. The procedure can be modified to meet different requirements, such as packing items together, stabilizing loads on pallets, or even making attractive displays for use in retail settings.
- Tensioners: These are necessary instruments for pulling the band material taut around the objects. Pneumatic, battery-operated, and manual tensioners are offered to accommodate varying workload requirements and tastes.
- Sealers: To provide a tight and secure closing, sealers are used to crimp or seal the ends of the band material. Sealers that are manual, combination, or pneumatic provide flexibility according to the needs of the user.
- Cutters: After sealing, extra bands material is trimmed with cutters or snips. Safety cutters are made to make sure that the bundled objects are not damaged while being cut.
- Dispensers: Banding dispensers make it easier to handle and unroll band material, which increases productivity during bundling.
Common Band Methods
- Undouble-Strap Packaging: Ideal for little packages or goods.
- After grouping the item(s) together, wrap the band around them.
- Use a tensioner to tighten the band, and use a sealer to keep the ends in place.
- Intersection:
- Perfect for keeping loads on pallets stable.
- Lay two bands over the top of the load in a cross pattern.
- To provide a firm hold, tighten and seal each band.
- Edge Defense:
- protects packed things against harm, particularly when steel bands are used.
- Before attaching the band, place edge guards on the corners of the objects.
- guarantees a tight hold without endangering the items that are wrapped.
Benefits of Banding:
- Security: Banding reduces the possibility of moving or damage during transit by offering a solid and secure way to hold objects together.
- Versatility: Banding can be used for a wide range of tasks, from bundling shop products to securing heavy machinery pieces.
- Cost-Effective: Banding is an economical packaging option that offers efficiency without sacrificing protection when compared to other techniques.
- Environmental Impact: Packaging that is sustainable benefits from the use of band materials derived from recyclable materials.
Tips for Efficient Banding:
- Appropriate Tension: It’s important to strike the correct tension. If it’s too tight, it could damage the objects; if it’s too loose, the items might move.
- Secure Seals: To avoid unintentional releases during transit, make sure seals are applied correctly and securely.
- Safety first: To reduce the chance of injury, wear the proper protective gear, such as gloves and safety cutters.
- Frequent Inspections: To provide maximum security, periodically check the band for signs of wear or damage and replace it as necessary.
When it comes to packing and material handling, banding proves to be an effective yet straightforward solution. Learning the skill of band can greatly increase efficiency and lower the danger of damage, whether you’re packing things for retail display, securing loads for shipping, or arranging objects in a warehouse. Every workplace may take advantage of banding’s benefits and revolutionize the way goods are handled, shipped, and presented by implementing the appropriate tools, techniques, and commitment to safety. Banding techniques are a timeless tool in the pursuit of efficiency and security because of their versatility and simplicity, even as industries continue to grow.
If you’re looking for band material and tools to get the job done, we got you covered!
Give us a call to talk to our professionals about banding and how we can help your material handling process.
